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Cross the Bridge - October 14, 2012

"Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the mutilation!"
NKJV

Around 60AD, the church at Philippi began to preach a different message than what Jesus had taught. Jesus' message was that if we believe in Him, we will not perish but have everlasting life.

John 11:25-26 "Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?" NKJV

To be forgiven of our sins, we just need to believe that Jesus' death on the cross is the only way to be forgiven. That's it. The church at Philippi began to say that people had to first become a Jew, be circumcised, and then they could become a follower of Jesus. That's not at all what Jesus said. Humanity often wants us to 'do something' before we can be made right with God. It's like putting our two cents in so to speak. Friend, that's what got us into trouble in the first place. Jesus has done everything needed so we can be forgiven of our sins. Beware of anyone who adds or takes away from the message of Jesus. It can be very harmful. There is nothing we can 'do' to make ourselves right with God. He is waiting with open arms for all who will call on Him.

Life Lesson: Anything beyond coming to Jesus in faith is works-based mentality.

Dear Father,
Thank You for Your Son and doing everything necessary for me to have a relationship with You. Please give me opportunities to tell others that they can come to You just as they are. Thank You for caring for all of my needs and loving me so much. I do not ever want to put up obstacles for others to come to You. In Jesus' name, Amen.